OnTrack: The PCB Design Podcast PCB Manufacturing: Then and Now
Apr 12, 2023
37:48
Let’s walk down memory lane and discover how circuit boards are being manufactured back in the 50s.
In this episode, we have the pleasure to have Gene Weiner, a true gem in the industry! This is a rare opportunity to learn from an expert who has helped shape the electronics industry for more than 60 years now.
Watch through the end, and make sure to check out the show notes and additional resources below.
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- Introduction to Gene Weiner and a glimpse of his illustrious career in the electronics industry beginning in 1956
- Gene retrospects vividly how they used to do 3D printing and additive back in the 50s
- What would interest a young man to go down the path of electronics manufacturing back in the 50’s? Gene shares his career experience and what sparked his interest in electronics
- 1975 marked the beginning of electronic manufacturing automation development outside the US
- Captive operations versus outsourcing — a lot of electronics companies chose cost reduction over maintaining their own manufacturing operations
- Gene gives his insight about moving some manufacturing facilities to Latin American countries like Mexico and Columbia
- What does it take to bring manufacturing back to the US?
- Just building chips in America without building the rest of the supply chain here just lengthen the supply chain. Gene stresses that volume, demand, incentives, and continuous government programs are necessary to make anchoring a success
- Gene suggests that partnering is better than hiring. Partner with talents who share a mutual vision with the company, and share benefits together
Links and Resources:
- Connect with Gene Weiner on LinkedIn
- Visit Weiner International Associates' website
- Watch the related OnTrack episodes